Gemiler Island (Gemiler Adasi)
Fethiye, Muğla, 48300
The charming island of Gemiler, off the Turkish coast, offers a serene setting to escape bustling city life. The island's rich history is evident from the ancient ruins of Byzantine churches, courts, and cisterns. In addition to the historical sites, visitors can also enjoy beaches with crystal-clear waters.
The basics
Gemiler Island, or Saint Nicholas Island as it's also known, has many stories to tell and sights to behold. Located south of Fethiye, the island is a mere speck compared with its neighbors, but it’s steeped in 1,500-year-old history. Here you can admire Byzantine ruins, with five Greek churches scattered among ancient dwellings, tombs, and graveyards. Along your journey, uncover tales that portray how traders used this Mediterranean port to sell olive oil and grain to passing vessels. Several tours offer day trips to the island, or you can also charter a private boat.
Things to know before you go
There are many Byzantine-era sites to visit on Gemiler Island, including the ruins of a Byzantine monastery, Crusader fortress, and the tomb of Saint Nicholas.
You’ll find walking trails linking the sites on the island, but these are covered in loose scree, so wear good walking shoes.
The island is uninhabited, so don’t expect to be able to buy food and drinks or other essentials.
How to get there
To get there, you can take a water taxi, private boat, or guided boat tour from either Fethiye or Ölüdeniz, with travel times ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the departure point.
When to get there
The ancient ruins of Gemiler Island in Turkey are a stunning sight to behold year-round, but if you're looking for optimal weather conditions and fewer crowds, the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November). The temperatures during these months are mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring the island's winding paths and hidden coves. Additionally, the island's breathtaking views are especially vibrant during these months, with flowers in bloom and colorful foliage dotting the landscape.
Join a day tour package
Gemiler Island is often visited on a day tour from Fethiye. These cruises also include stops at other nearby attractions, including Butterfly Valley and the Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz. In addition to showing you more of the coast around Fethiye, the tours will also give you time to stop and swim in the turquoise waters.
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